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Life decisions require a rational and systematic way of thinking where you might decide
on what information is relevant or not. If learning how to make solid, rational decisions
intrigue you, Finance is a field for you. At San Jose State University, three areas
of financial decision-making are emphasized: corporate finance, investments, and financial institutions. Corporate finance courses are designed to prepare the student for financial analysis and planning as
essential functions of a business enterprise. The investments area emphasizes the decision-making processes required to analyze the valuation of
securities such as stocks or bonds and the principles of managing an investment portfolio.
Financial institutions are studied both from an external viewpoint that emphasizes the function of money
and capital markets, and from the internal perspective of a manager of a financial
institution such as a commercial bank, savings and loan, mutual fund or life insurance
company. The objective is to prepare students for careers such as financial officer
of a corporation or a financial institution responsible for investment and financing
decisions.

The curriculum requires students to take a course in each area – corporate finance,
investments and financial institutions, and allows them to focus in one of the three
areas of study. Additionally, the curriculum includes an awareness of the moral and
ethical considerations involved; and incentives to grow and keep pace with ever-changing
issues, conditions, forces and ideas.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics latest report, financial positions are
among the fastest growing occupations from 2006 to 2016. The field of finance can
be very rewarding and, depending on the position, beginning annual compensation can
range from low $50K to high $60K. The opportunities are diverse and the possibilities
tremendous. Regardless of economic conditions – either strong or weak – a well-prepared
analyst is a critical part of any organization and they will be sought after by firms.
Successful business persons trained in finance could be promoted to Chief Financial
Officer (CFO) or controller in a corporation. Others may follow their dreams to start
their own businesses.

Career paths in Finance include positions as:

Financial analyst

Credit analyst in a financial institution; banks, credit union, etc.

Investment analyst

Fixed income analyst

Financial planning/personal financial advisor

Corporate treasury

Risk analyst

Research analyst

Profit and Loss analyst

The career paths will be promising and opportunities unlimited for any SJSU student
studying finance – corporate, institutions or investments.